NBC sticking with hockey

NBC Sports has exercised its option to keep airing the National Hockey League through the upcoming 2008-2009 season. In announcing the renewal, NBC noted that regular season ratings for the NHL “Sunday Game of the Week” were up 11% over the previous season, with the sought-after Men 18-49 demo up 33%.

"There have been positive signs for the league, both on and off the ice. Ratings were up this year; the Winter Classic in Buffalo was a huge success; advertising sales were healthy; and the product on the ice has never been better, led by young, marketable stars such as Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. We believe this is a sport that will continue to grow," said Dick Ebersol, Chairman, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics.